The US home automation company announced the Nest Protect earlier this week. The device is a smoke and carbon monoxide detector that allows users to control its settings and check its battery life using a dedicated iOS or Android app.

While the battery operated version of the Protect would theoretically operate in Australia, a Nest spokesperson confirmed to Good Gear Guide that the company has no plans to sell the device Down Under.

"We're currently focusing on bringing Nest Protect to market in the US, Canada and UK but will let you know if we eventually become available in Australia."

The Nest Protect is immediately distinguished from most other smoke alarms on the market thanks to a large, LED ring around the big, circular button in the middle, and a flower-print design surrounding it.

The LED ring around the Nest Protect's circular button illuminates in various colours depending on the status, and an optional feature called "pathlight" will illuminate the LED ring white when it detects someone walking under it.

In addition to the LED ring, the Nest Protect will also talk to users, a feature the company calls "Heads-Up". It uses a female speaking voice to tell you where smoke is or when carbon monoxide levels are rising.

If the warning is a false alarm, a user can simply wave their hand in the direction of the Protect to dismiss the alert, negating the need to press a button on the device.

Nest will sell two models of the Protect, a battery operated device that runs on six AA lithium batteries, and a wired model that's powered by a 120-volt connection, specifically designed for the US and Canada.

The company claims the battery operated model will last "multiple years". It will be available from November for US$129.

The screen was particularly good. It is bright and visible from most angles, however heat is an issue, particularly around the Windows button on the front, and on the back where the battery housing is located.

My first impression after unboxing the Q702 is that it is a nice looking unit. Styling is somewhat minimalist but very effective. The tablet part, once detached, has a nice weight, and no buttons or switches are located in awkward or intrusive positions.

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